George H. Kenney III

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress, July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Captain George H. Kenney III, United States Army, for gallantry in action: Captain Kenny distinguished himself by gallantry in action on 8 April 1971 while serving as a Senior Advisor to a Regional Force Battalion in Tam Ky District, Quang Tin Province, Republic of Vietnam. On that date Captain Kenney and the Battalion he was advising were preparing to leave their night defensive position when an incoming helicopter began to receive hostile small arms and automatic fire. Captain Kenney personally led elements of the Battalion to the landing zone and directed the helicopter off the ground. Once the helicopter had left the landing zone, Captain Kenney reorganized a Regional Forces Company and identified the enemy position. He directed the tactical employment of the company and personally led the assault element on a platoon of Viet Cong stationed in bunkers. The bunker complex was engaged with hand grenades, small arms and automatic fire. Inspired by Captain Kenney’s display of bravery and exemplary leadership, the Vietnamese successfully routed the enemy from his position and destroyed the bunkers. Captain Kenney’s conspicuous gallantry in action was in keeping with the highest traditions of the United States Army and reflects great credit upon himself and the military service.